DU QUOIN -- In a marriage, the 75th anniversary is regarded as a pinnacle celebration. It is marked with diamonds, as they are the strongest gems.

When one considers the relationship between Du Quoin VFW Post 513 and the local community, it is evident that it has been a lasting union.

So it was appropriate that a 75th anniversary dinner celebration be held for the purpose of reflecting on history and looking forward to the future.

This past Sunday evening's festivities featured Chaplain Chester Armstrong offering a prayer of thanks to veterans and their families, and asking for a blessing upon "those who made the ultimate sacrifice."

Armstrong expressed the hope that world leaders would find resolutions to avoid war.

The menu consisted of pulled-pork sandwiches, pasta, garden salad, apple and cherry pie. Beverages included tea and coffee, and a cash bar. There was no charge for the meal.

Chuck Gilliam and Billy James were two of the hundred or so in attendance.

Though not a veteran himself, James recounted that his father was commander in the '60s, and he and Gilliam often visit the post and "enjoy having coffee four or five times a week."

Both men are willing to pitch in to help the community whenever necessary.

"We help out with whatever they need, any projects -- like putting flags up."

Commander Archie Hampleman accepted a commemorative plaque on behalf of VFW Post 513, and area politicians were eager to praise and thank the local Veterans of Foreign Wars.

The duty of the VFW is to assist veterans and serve the community, and the organization has a proud history of doing both. National membership numbers 1.7 million.

In his speech, Hampleman declared Post 513 "a beacon for guests and vets for 75 years." He recalled their contributions to the community, which included hosting weddings, parades, and funding scholarships to high school students.

Hampleman pointed out that the VFW has helped female members break through barriers to gain equality.

Bryant remarked that she's not a vet, but she is nonetheless very grateful. She described herself as an "history buff," and recounted her family's military service. She lauded the veterans, saying in part:

"You do a lot of great things -- VFW in general, and this post in particular. I came tonight to honor you and thank you for serving. God bless you all. God bless the United States of America."

Schimpf thanked everyone for coming and giving him the opportunity to participate. He recalled his own 24-year career, which began at the U.S. Naval Academy, and ended after being a Lieutenant Colonel in the Marine Corps.

Schimpf stated that he didn't often leave his wife and young sons on Sunday.

"Me coming out and talking on a Sunday afternoon is an exception. We need the VFW in this country. We have to be able to come together and work with everybody to accomplish the mission."

Schimpf decried what he sees as "the biggest threat to our country."

"The level of decency and civility in this country is at an all-time low, and that's something volunteers can do something about."

Hampleman alluded to future goals with his closing remarks:

"We cannot live on what was done in the past ... we need to expand and look ahead. We need to continue all the great things, but we need to get our young veterans involved."